Basic BMX Equipment

For this week's article I'll look at basic equipment for the beginning BMX rider.

So, you're interested in riding BMX, or know someone who is. How do you get started?

It's always hard to walk into a specialty store and admit that you are interested but clueless. Well, I have done that for you. I went to a local bike shop and let the guys guide me through the gear, the bikes and the equipment that a beginner should know about. (Okay, I wasn't entirely clueless but I didn't let them know that!).

The beautiful thing about BMX is that, aside from protective equipment, once you have a bike you don't really need to make much of an investment. There are no special uniforms to buy and no special shoes (unless you want special shoes!). I love a sport that I can wear jeans to do.

In addition to the basic equipment listed in this week's article I will add one other thing. For those of you who are interested in racing and being a ranked competitor, you might consider a membership in the ABA(American Bicycle Association). The ABA is the largest sanctioning body for BMX racing. A new membership is $45 and includes a subscription to BMXer Magazine.

Next week, I'll cover some of the differences in bikes and what to look for when you pick your first.